Town hears potential changes to clubhouse plans

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VAIL - Some neighbors are happy with adjustments the town of Vail is willing to make to the renovation plans for the Vail Golf course clubhouse, but concerns remain and the topic remains a hot one at the Vail Town Council chambers.

About half a dozen residents spoke out Tuesday night, with about double that number in attendance, to address the latest changes that include rezoning the property to "outdoor recreation" rather than the previously proposed "general use"; restricting the use of outdoor tents at the site; the use of the relocated 18th green; parking lot access; and driving range netting.

Attorney Art Abplanalp, who represents Glenn Hilliard and other golf course neighbors, acknowledged some good progress after Tuesday night's presentation but said more needs to be done. He referenced a letter from his client sent to the council earlier Tuesday.

In the letter, Hilliard said the town needs to develop a plan for a world-class golf clubhouse that is consistent with neighborhood covenants "and which will remain adjacent to the currently configured 18th, one of the best holes and greens on the Vail golf course."

Other neighbors mentioned similar concerns about the redesign focusing more on the clubhouse's use as a special events center than as an actual golf clubhouse.

Deborah Webster, who lives on Sunburst Drive, said the money being spent on an events center is taking away from the clubhouse. She told the town to "focus on what voters approved."

Mayor Andy Daly told the neighbors to return for the next two meetings on the subject - on Sept. 18 and Oct. 2 - adding that the town is interested in the feedback and will consider everyone's input.

"We'll make a concerted effort to work through this process," Daly said.